Amritsar is a city of tradition and culture and there is much more to do than visit religious sites like the Golden Temple. The markets are very active with local and traditional items of art and food, where tourists get a feel of Punjab in a special way.
This guide offers the perfect starting point for those who want to delve deeper into the culture of Punjab through shopping and includes a list of 15 things to bring from Punjab. In addition to guidelines and recommendations of a local expert, it assists the guests in orienting themselves in the shops of Amritsar and getting the most out of the shopping.
List of the 15 Must-Buy Souvenirs from Punjab – Shopping Guide for Amritsar:
1. Phulkari Dupatta
The Phulkari Dupatta is one of the most famous souvenirs from Punjab and demonstrates the area’s embroidery craftsmanship. Phulkari, which means ‘flower work’, is a form of hand embroidery that embellishes the fabric with floral designs on clothing made of cotton or silk. These colourful dupattas are not mere accessories but the pride of being Punjabi inherited from generations.
Where to Buy:
The most suitable shops to shop for Phulkari Dupattas are the crowded markets in the vicinity of the Golden Temple particularly the Hall Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh. These areas are well known for their large range and quality.
2. Punjabi Jutti
The Punjabi Jutti is another conventional product that signifies Punjabi workmanship, which is a type of shoe that is both comfortable and stylish. These shoes are made from leather and are embroidered; these shoes are unisex shoes, and anyone can wear them.
Where to Buy:
There are many places to buy Juttis but the best places include Hall Bazaar and Clock Tower Market where you will find a wide range of Juttis. Some of the specialised shoe shops available that have good quality shoes include Kallu Jutti Shop.
3. Soot Ke Laddu
The food culture of Punjab is as diverse as its history and so is the local sweets of Amritsar. One of the most famous dishes is Soot Ke Laddu, which is a sweet dish made of refined flour, ghee and sugar.
Where to Buy:
They can also visit popular sweet shops such as Gopal Sweets and Pammi Pooriyan Wala located near the Golden Temple. These are well known for their excellent quality of laddus. You should also take a shot of other types including Motichoor Laddu and Besan Laddu sold in stores.
Amritsar Tour Packages:
- 2 Days Amritsar Golden Temple Trip
- 10 Days Delhi Agra Jaipur With Amritsar Tour
- 8 Days Amritsar Manali Dharamshala Package
- 10 Days Himachal With Amritsar Itinerary
4. Jaggery and Dry Fruits
The sweet dish that can be taken back home without any second thought is jaggery with dry fruits of Punjab. Gur or Jaggery is a type of raw sugar that is commonly used in Punjabi food apart from other regional foods. When taken with dry fruits it comes with a rich burst of flavour as well as nutrients.
Where to Buy:
Jain Market and Ranjit Market are two local markets that have many types of jaggery and dry fruit products. Guru Kripa is also known for its quality jaggery products as well.
5. Kara (Bracelet)
The Kara is an important religious emblem in Sikhism, which is an iron or steel bangle worn around the wrist by both sexes. It is a symbol of the person’s link to the Sikh teachings and represents strength and honour.
Where to Buy:
Saroornagar and especially the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib as well as the markets around the Golden Temple are the best places to buy Karas. There is also a variety of designs in the jewellery shops in Hall Bazaar. Some Karas have embossed writings or marks. Select one that appeals to you most.
6. Parandi
A type of hair ornament, the Parandi is made from colourful threads and may be decorated with beads or sequins. These decorative extensions have been part of the Punjabi women’s dressing for many years, and they are still available in markets within the region.
Where to Buy:
Go to Hall Bazaar and Clock Tower Market and many shops are selling Parandis in various styles and colours. When selecting Parandis make sure they are well-threaded and have tight attachment so that they can last longer.
7. Mini Swords and Daggers (Kirpans)
Another link between Amritsar and Sikhism is the ceremonial Kirpan, a small sword or dagger that Sikhs use today. These ceremonial weapons are on sale in the markets of the city in miniature sizes so that the visitors can take home a symbol of the valour and honours that are so much a part of the Sikh ethos.
Where to Buy:
Hall Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh are the most appropriate places to purchase different types of Kirpans. Sikh Artisans are one of the specialised shops that sell quality miniature swords.
8. Papad Vadiyan
Papad Vadiyan is one of the most popular Punjabi dishes which is a crispy lentil that can be eaten as appetizers or side dishes. These are normally baked and seasoned to the best of the baker’s ability.
Where to Buy:
The Papad Wadiyan Bazaar located close to the Golden Temple is the best place to find any type of Papad Vadiyan. Sri Sagar Papad Shop is also a must-visit shop for quality products.
9. Spiritual Books (Gutkas)
For visitors who want to learn more about Sikhism then they can buy Gutka, which is a small book containing Sikh prayers and hymns from the holy books in the local Gurudwaras. These spirit books are great for gifts or keepsakes that give a glimpse into the daily spiritual life of Sikhs.
Where to Buy:
Gutka can be bought from Guru Granth Sahib Corner and other sections of Gurudwaras that are located in and around the Golden Temple.
10. Traditional Clothing
However, apart from Phulkari Dupattas, one can find any type of traditional dress material in the markets of Amritsar like Salwar Kameez and sarees. Most of these clothes are embellished with elaborate Phulkari or some other form of folk embroidery and are not only aesthetically pleasing but emblematic of the rich textile culture of Punjab as well.
Where to Buy:
Traditional Punjabi dressing can be availed at Hall Bazaar, Katra Jaimal Singh and Sadar Bazaar. Some of the stores include Vishal Traders which sells embroidered products and Phulkari Emporium which also sells embroidered products.
11. Pankhi (Hand-held Fan)
The Pankhi is a handmade fan that is made by Punjabi women. These fans are used and can be decorated with beautiful patterns on their faces, symbolizing the fine workmanship of the area.
Where to Buy:
Different types of Pankhis are available at Hall Bazaar and Clock Tower Market. Punjabi Artisans and other specialized shops are good for better quality fabrics.
12. Woolen Textiles
In the winter months, markets of Amritsar have lots of warm woollen clothes like shawls and blankets that are very famous over there. These items are made with a lot of attention and sometimes even with the elements of Punjabi ornament, so these are good warm accessories and home decorations for winter.
Where to Buy:
Sadar Bazaar and Hall Bazaar are the most appropriate markets to buy woollen textiles of various types. Woolen World is one of the better-known stores and has been selling quality products to its customers.
13. Handicrafts
Amritsar is full of handicrafts and some of the popular products of Punjab are pottery, woodwork and metal crafts. These are elaborated artworks like decorative plates or beautifully carved boxes which are symbolic of the region’s rich artistic culture and are ideal for people who would like to bring home souvenirs that are original.
Where to Buy:
Jail Bazaar and Hall Bazaar are two good places to go for handicraft items. The Handicraft Centre for Punjabi Products provides excellent quality handicraft items.
14. Swords (Talwars)
Besides mini Kirpans, there are full-size Talwars for collectors or anyone interested in Sikh martial arts. These are well-made swords and are often engraved and are excellent wall hangings symbolic of the warrior of Punjab.
Where to Buy:
For example, the Talwar Craft in Katra Jaimal Singh and Hall Bazaar sell different types of Talwars. Sikh Artisans is famous for selling original replicas.
15. Local Spices
To get the authentic taste of Punjab, one can buy spices like garam masala or amchur (dried mango powder). These spices give you the opportunity to cook the dishes of Punjabi cuisine at home and to continue the traditions of Amritsar.
Where to Buy:
Clock Tower Market, Guru Market and Hall Bazaar are some of the best places to find almost all types of spices. Spice Bazaar mainly sells local spices with high quality.
Conclusion
The markets of Amritsar are also a true representation of Punjab and every piece of jewellery, every piece of clothing – the Phulkari Dupattas, every sweet – Soot Ke Laddu, everything is a symbol of Punjab’s tradition. Shopping here is about saving these experiences, and being able to take home something more than items – you are taking home the spirit of Punjab. With all the help of the Tusk Travel tips, your shopping experience will be fun and fruitful and you will be glad to take home souvenirs of this enchanting city.
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